Michael Lehr Antiques
Live Auction

June 2026 Vernacular Photo History Auction

Wed, Jun 24, 2026 11:00AM EDT
  2026-06-24 11:00:00 2026-06-24 11:00:00 America/New_York Michael Lehr Michael Lehr : June 2026 Vernacular Photo History Auction https://auction.michaellehrantiques.com/auctions/michael-lehr-antiques/june-2026-vernacular-photo-history-auction-23574
Our June 2026 auction presents a focused and exceptional selection of historical photographs spanning the 1840s through the early twentieth century, with unusual depth in named subjects, rare formats, and documented provenance anchored by strong vernacular material that rewards close looking.
Michael Lehr Antiques info@michaellehrantiques.com
Lot 497

CDV, Two Unidentified Ballet Performers in Costume

Estimate: $25 - $50
Starting Bid
$10

Bid Increments

Price Bid Increment
$0 $5
$100 $10
$200 $25
$500 $50
$1,000 $100
$2,000 $250
$5,000 $5,000
$10,000 $1,000
$20,000 $2,000
$50,000 $5,000
Two young women dressed in matching theatrical ballet costumes stand together before a painted studio backdrop in this albumen CDV, dating stylistically to the 1860s or early 1870s. Both subjects wear identical dark bodices trimmed with heavy white lace at the neckline and sleeves, full layered skirts with contrasting light-tipped panels, and elaborate feathered headdresses pinned into upswept dark hair. The figure on the left stands in a turned pose with one hand on her hip, wearing light tights and soft ballet slippers, while the figure on the right rests her arm atop a fringed studio posing stand. The painted backdrop features an arched architectural surround with draped curtains and a clouded sky, consistent with theatrical portrait backdrops of the period.

The matching costumes, headdresses, and coordinated poses suggest these women were professional or semi-professional performers photographed in character, possibly as part of a stage production or touring company. The symmetry of dress and arrangement implies deliberate presentation for a promotional or souvenir portrait.

No photographer's imprint is visible on the mount. The reverse bears a handwritten notation in blue ink reading "506" at the lower center.

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